Symbolic — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Symbolic
Symbolic (adjective)
- using, employing, or exhibiting a symbol
- consisting of or proceeding by means of symbols
- of, relating to, or constituting a symbol
Symbolic (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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having the function or meaning of an object or figure that stands for something else
"the butterfly in the poem is symbolic of the impermanence of youth"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Symbolic
The most common words with a similar meaning to Symbolic:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for Symbolic
Words with the opposite meaning of Symbolic:
Near Antonyms of Symbolic
Word Forms of Symbolic
Derived words: symbolically (adverb)
Origin & Etymology of Symbolic
First known use: 1610
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Symbolic
- CEFR level: C1 English Vocabulary — Page 28
- Academic Word List: 570 Academic Word List — Page 14
- Topics: Descriptions / Adjectives
Words & Phrases Containing Symbolic
Frequently Asked Questions about Symbolic
What does "Symbolic" mean?
"Symbolic" means using, employing, or exhibiting a symbol. As an adjective, it is defined as: using, employing, or exhibiting a symbol.
What is another word for "Symbolic"?
Other words for "Symbolic" include emblematic, representational and representative. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Symbolic" you intend.
What is the opposite of "Symbolic"?
Antonyms of "Symbolic" include nonsymbolic. Near antonyms include actual and literal.
How do you use "Symbolic" in a sentence?
Examples of "Symbolic" in a sentence: "the butterfly in the poem is symbolic of the impermanence of youth".
Is "Symbolic" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Symbolic" is an adjective.
Is "Symbolic" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a C1-level word, "Symbolic" is typical of Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE), IELTS band 7.0–8.0, TOEFL iBT 95–113, PTE Academic 76–84, TOEIC Listening & Reading 945+. It is on the Academic Word List, so it appears often in IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and university texts. Advanced words like this are also useful for the GRE, SAT, GMAT, and LSAT.
How do you pronounce "Symbolic"?
"Symbolic" is pronounced /sim-ˈbä-lik/ and divided into syllables as sym·bol·ic.
What is the origin of the word "Symbolic"?
First known use: 1610.